He will take on the responsibility of heading up the English club's recruitment policy as he works closely alongside Soriano, having brought the likes of Samuel Eto'o, Ronaldinho and Daniel Alves to Camp Nou during his time there.

Goal.com understands that City remain interested in Esteve Calzada, the ex-Barca marketing director who was another key player in Begiristain and Soriano's backstage group which was credited with much of the Catalan club's recent success.